How do you plan an active trip for people who are not all equally active?

In the same group, there are often people who would jump straight onto a bicycle, those who enjoy walking as long as it is not too strenuous, those who would gladly try something new but without feeling pressured, and also people whose favourite part of any trip is the moment when everyone sits down at the table.

That is why a good programme should not be designed solely around what sounds appealing in the description. Rafting, kayaking, hiking, cycling or an adrenaline park can all be excellent choices, but only if they suit the group taking part.

Before choosing an activity, it is important to know a few basic things: how accustomed people are to physical activity, whether they are coming after a working week, how much time we have, whether the main goal is socialising or a challenge, and whether the programme should include a gentler option for those who do not want to take part in the more demanding section.

Particular attention should be paid to the word “easy”. For some people, an easy walk means half an hour of walking on a flat path followed by a coffee, while for others it means two hours of uphill walking because “it is not technically demanding”. That is why it is better to clearly state from the beginning how long the route takes, how much walking is involved, whether there are uphill sections, where the breaks are, and what someone can do if they do not want to take part in the entire activity.

For mixed groups with different “activity levels”, it often works well to organise two options. For example, one group can take a longer cycling route, while the other goes for a shorter walk and a tasting. Some can choose kayaking, while others explore the local area. Part of the group can have a more active start to the day, with everyone meeting later for a shared lunch or an informal get-together.

The important thing is that neither option should sound like the “real programme” and the “programme for those who cannot manage”. It is better to offer two equally valid options: one with more activity and the other with a slower pace.

Breaks are just as important as the activities themselves. If every minute of the day is filled, people may complete everything listed in the programme, but they will not have enough time to actually enjoy what is happening. A good break often does more for the atmosphere than adding yet another activity to an already packed schedule.

In the end, the group still needs to come together somewhere. This could be lunch, a tasting, a shared final destination, a group photo or simply some time to relax together. It is not important that everyone does the same thing all day, but it is important that the trip does not end up feeling like several separate programmes that just happen to take place on the same day.

An active trip works best when it is interesting enough for those who want more, while still being accessible to those who prefer a gentler pace. No pressure, no race and no feeling that everyone has to fit into the same mould.